Study Accounting and Finance in the USA

Introduction to Accounting and Finance degrees

Accounting and finance courses in the USA will help you craft unique perspectives and knowledge on economics, mathematics, political science, psychology and sociology. Students will learn how to prepare and interpret financial information, as well as gain a theoretical and practical understanding of core financial practice.

USA institutions also provide opportunities for practical experience through internships with major corporations and financial institutions, helping you apply your knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, you'll have the chance to network with diverse groups of students and alumni who can open doors to exciting career opportunities.

Types of Accounting and Finance Degrees

Bachelor's in Accounting and Finance

There are several types of degrees in the fields of accounting and finance to suit various career objectives. One common choice is a Bachelor's in Accounting and Finance, which offers a well-rounded education encompassing both disciplines. This program covers topics like financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and investment analysis, preparing graduates for roles as accountants, financial analysts, or financial managers. 

Alternatively, students can opt for a Bachelor's in Accounting, which focuses predominantly on accounting principles, or a Bachelor's in Finance, concentrating on financial markets and investment strategies. Business administration degrees with accounting or finance concentrations offer a broader business foundation with specialized knowledge, while a Bachelor's in Economics with a finance focus combines economic principles with financial decision-making.

• Course Duration: 4 Years
• International Course Fees: $20,000 to $50,000 per year
• Entry Requirements: For Accounting and Finance degrees in the USA, students typically need a high school diploma, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), standardized test scores, recommendations, a personal statement, and awareness of visa requirements and deadlines.

Master's in Accounting and Finance

A Master's in Accounting and Finance is a postgraduate program that delves deep into advanced financial concepts, equipping students with the skills needed for senior roles in finance, accounting, and related fields. This degree combines in-depth knowledge of financial management, investment analysis, auditing, and more, making it a sought-after qualification for professionals seeking career advancement or career changers aiming to enter the financial industry. A Master's in Accounting and Finance typically takes one to two years to complete and may include a thesis or capstone project. Graduates often pursue careers as financial analysts, auditors, controllers, or financial managers, working in various sectors, including corporate finance, investment banking, and public accounting.

• Course Duration: 1 or 2 Years
• International Course Fees: $20,000 to $60,000
• Entry Requirements: Requirements for a Master's in Accounting and Finance typically include a bachelor's degree, transcripts, GMAT/GRE scores (sometimes), work experience, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, English proficiency, and a resume/CV.

Accounting and Finance Scholarships

EY Global Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a Master's degree in Accounting or a related field at select partner universities worldwide.
• Details: Ernst & Young offers various scholarships to support exceptional students in their accounting and finance studies. Scholarship benefits may include financial support, mentorship opportunities, and potential internship or job offers with EY.
• Application Deadline: Application deadlines vary by country and university. Check the EY website or contact your university's financial aid office for specific details.

AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students

• Eligibility: Open to international students from underrepresented minority groups (e.g., African American, Hispanic, Native American) pursuing a degree in accounting at the undergraduate or graduate level in the USA.
• Details: The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Foundation offers this scholarship to promote diversity in accounting. Recipients can receive awards of up to $5,000 per year.
• Application Deadline: Typically in spring. Check the AICPA website for the most up-to-date information.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Eligibility: Open to international students from eligible countries pursuing a Master's or Ph.D. degree in various fields, including Accounting and Finance, in the USA.
• Details: The Fulbright Program provides scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs for outstanding international students to study in the USA. The program aims to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by country. Check the Fulbright Program website or your country's Fulbright Commission for specific information.

Jobs and Careers in Accounting and Finance

Graduates with degrees in accounting and finance are well-prepared for a spectrum of specialized and financially rewarding career paths. Many start their professional journey as Financial Analysts, where they meticulously examine financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide valuable insights to influence corporate decisions. Others opt for the challenging and esteemed path of becoming Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), specializing in areas like tax accounting, auditing, or forensic accounting, with responsibilities ranging from ensuring tax compliance to uncovering financial irregularities. Aspiring Financial Managers take on roles in corporate finance, overseeing budgets, investments, and financial strategies to drive organizational growth.

Additionally, careers as Investment Bankers are sought-after, involving capital-raising and intricate financial transactions. These roles offer competitive salaries, room for career advancement, and a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of businesses.

Accounting and Finance Salary

Graduates in Accounting and Finance can expect competitive starting salaries, often ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 per year. With experience and professional qualifications such as a CPA or CFA, senior positions like Financial Managers or Investment Bankers can command substantially higher earnings, often exceeding $100,000 annually.

Top USA Universities for Accounting and Finance

To learn more about the best accounting and finance courses in the USA, find details on the top ten ranking Accounting and Finance universities below:

1. Harvard University 
2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
3. Stanford University
4. University of Chicago
5. University of Pennsylvania
6. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
7. New York University (NYU)
8. Columbia University
9. Yale University
10. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Accounting and Finance FAQ

What is the IELTS requirement for a Master's in Accounting and Finance in the USA?

The IELTS requirement for a Master's in Accounting and Finance in the USA typically ranges from 6.5 to 7.5, depending on the university and program.

Are there Accounting and Finance master's programs for non-accounting bachelor's degree holders?

Yes, many universities in the USA offer master's programs for non-accounting bachelor's degree holders. These programs may require prerequisite coursework or additional courses to build foundational knowledge.

Which accounting and finance course is the best in the United States?

The best accounting and finance course in the United States can vary depending on individual preferences and career goals. Consider top universities such as the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business, and Stanford University's Graduate School of Business for renowned programs in this field.